Have Your Teeth and Eat Your Candy Too
Not all candy is dangerous to teeth.
1. Throw away all hard candies. Hard candies are most likely to promote tooth decay because they remain in the mouth for an extended time. Hard candies can also cause a chipped tooth and cause young children to choke.
2. Encourage children not to eat their candy until after Halloween. This will give parents a chance to inspect and sort the treats.
3. Sticky candies can damage dental work, such as fillings and dental bridges, and orthodontic appliances, like dental braces and retainers. However, they are not as cariogenic as previously thought. If you must chew gum, use only sugar-free brands.
4. Eat candy only when you can brush your teeth immediately afterward. Candy for desert after a balanced meal is acceptable. Do not include candy in school lunches or allow your children to eat continuously throughout the day.
5. Always practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing two to three times each day for at least two minutes, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It is best to brush immediately after a meal. If you are not able to brush your teeth, rinse your mouth with water. Brushing before bedtime is particularly beneficial. It is also important to use dental floss to remove food from between teeth.
Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511
